E-Lecture - Functions of Roots, Stems, Leaves and Flowers

Functions of root

Roots are the important underground part of all vascular plants. However, not all plants have their roots underground, some plants have their roots growing above the ground. These are called aerial roots.

Roots perform the following functions:

  • Roots absorb water and dissolved nutrients from the soil.
  • They anchor the plant firmly.
  • They store food and nutrients.
  • Roots transport water and dissolved minerals to the plant.
  • Roots prevent soil erosion, provide sustenance and also habitat to various organisms.

Functions of stem

Stem, in botany, the plant axis that bears buds and shoots with leaves and, at its basal end, roots. The main function of a stem in plants is:

  • It supports and holds leaves, flowers, and fruits.
  • The stem allows the leaves to arrange in a way that they are able to receive direct sunlight in order to efficiently perform photosynthesis. The arrangement and position of leaves also allow for gas exchange.
  • The xylem present in the vascular bundles of stems conduct water and nutrient minerals from the root across the plant.

Functions of the leaf

In general, leaves are thin, flat organs responsible for the photosynthesis of the plant. Although photosynthesis typically occurs on the upper surface of the leaf, it can occur on both sides in some plant species. Leaves are typically comprised of a distinct upper and lower surface, stomata for gas exchange, waxy coating, hairs, and venation. As one of the most important constituents of plants, leaves have several essential functions:

  • Photosynthesis: The primary function of the leaf is the conversion of carbon dioxide, water, and UV light into sugar (e.g., glucose) via photosynthesis.
  • Interchange of gases: It takes place both for respiration and photosynthesis. The epidermis of the leaf contains guard cells that control and regulate the small pores on the undersurface of the leaves. These pores are called stomata. It is also responsible for gaseous exchange to takes place between the atmosphere and the plant body.
  • Vegetative propagation: Leaves of Bryophyllum, Begonia and Kalanchoe produce buds by means of which they give rise to new plants by vegetative propagation. In these cases when leaf lamina touches the ground, the leaf margin at point produces roots and form a bud that grows into a new plant.

Functions of Flowers

Flowers are modified leaves or sporophylls organized around a central stalk. Although they vary greatly in appearance, all flowers contain the same structures: sepals, petals, pistils, and stamens. The primary purpose of the flower is reproduction. Since the flowers are the reproductive organs of the plant, they mediate the joining of the sperm, contained within pollen, to the ovules contained in the ovary. Pollination is the movement of pollen from the anthers to the stigma.


Functions of flowers:

  • Give protection to reproductive organs like stamen and stigma.
  • Attract pollinators with their bright colors.
  • Produce fruits and seeds after reproduction.
  • In nature it is the key point for new generation to come.
  • Can act as source of food.